Security Intensifies Crackdown on Illegal Mining in Kassanda

Kassanda, April 12, 2026 - Security agencies in Uganda’s Wamala Region have intensified operations against illegal mining activities in Kassanda District following a directive from the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Development ordering the suspension of operations under Exploration Licence No. 00459.

The enforcement exercise, code-named Operation Safisha, is being jointly conducted by the Police Mineral Protection Unit and the Wamala Regional Police Command to restore order and ensure compliance with mining regulations.

According to regional police spokesperson Lameck Kigozi, the licence in question had been issued to Mugobwa Katugo Small Scale Miners strictly for exploration within a 0.34 square kilometre area in Bubali, Kitumbi Sub-county. However, authorities allege that the operators exceeded the scope of the permit by engaging in full-scale extraction without the required mining licence.

“This was purely an exploration licence. The law requires that after exploration, findings must be submitted to the Ministry before an extraction licence is granted. Unfortunately, this procedure was ignored, and illegal extraction commenced,” Kigozi said.

Following this breach, the Ministry ordered an immediate suspension of all activities, prompting the launch of the enforcement operation aimed at demobilising miners and clearing the site. Authorities say operators were initially given a two-week ultimatum to vacate the area and remove equipment, but several failed to comply.

“Despite the grace period given, some operators remained defiant. That is why security forces have now moved in to fully enforce the directive,” Kigozi added.

The crackdown involves multiple security units, including the Field Force Unit, the Criminal Investigations Directorate (CID), and Crime Intelligence teams, tasked with monitoring and investigating any related criminal activity.

Authorities have also warned both local and foreign nationals involved in the mining activities-including individuals from neighbouring countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Burundi, Tanzania, Kenya, and South Sudan-to vacate the area peacefully.

Kigozi cautioned against illegal scavenging in abandoned mining pits, locally known as “okwekyokola,” describing it as both unlawful and dangerous, with several fatalities already reported.

“This kind of activity has already claimed lives due to poor safety practices. Security will remain on the ground to ensure no one returns to the pits. These areas will be backfilled to prevent further incidents,” he said.

He urged aggrieved parties to pursue legal remedies through the Ministry rather than resisting enforcement.

“If you feel dissatisfied, the law provides avenues for appeal. You can formally engage the Ministry and apply for an extraction licence through the right procedures,” he added.

Authorities say the operation marks a decisive step toward regulating the mining sector in Kassanda, improving safety standards, and ensuring compliance with Uganda’s legal framework for mineral exploitation.